Asian Champions Trophy: India Defeats Korea 4-1 In Semis To Set Up Mouthwatering Final Clash With Hosts China

The Indian men’s hockey team delivered a scintillating performance to thrash Korea 4-1 in the semi-final of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China on Monday. The defending champions will now face hosts China in a tantalizing final on Tuesday.

India got off to a flying start, with Abhishek forcing a brilliant save from Korea’s goalkeeper Jaehan Kim in the opening minutes. Uttam Singh then broke the deadlock in the 13th minute, tapping in a cross from Araijeet Singh Hundal to give India the lead.

The Indians continued to dominate possession and doubled their advantage in the 19th minute when skipper Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner. Jarmanpreet Singh then made it 3-0 in the 32nd minute, deflecting an aerial pass from Sumit into the back of the net.

However, Korea pulled one back shortly after through Yang Ji-hun, who scored from a penalty corner to make it 3-1. The third quarter saw both teams create chances, but an error from Korea’s goalkeeper Jaehan Kim gifted India another penalty corner in the dying seconds. Harmanpreet stepped up once again to make it 4-1 with a powerful low flick.

India controlled the proceedings in the final quarter, with Abhishek and Araijeet forcing saves from the Korean goalkeeper. Despite earning a late penalty corner, Korea failed to capitalize as Hyeonhong Kim’s effort sailed wide.
Jarmanpreet Singh, who scored India’s third goal, was named the Hero of the Match. “We played exceptionally well today, we are happy to advance to the Final. Sumit provided me with a splendid ball for the goal and I am thankful to my roommate, who understands me so well, for setting up the goal for me,” he said.

The final on Tuesday promises to be a thrilling encounter, as India take on hosts China, who stunned Pakistan in the other semi-final. The defending champions will be aiming to clinch their fifth Asian Champions Trophy title, while China will be eager to make history by winning their first-ever championship.